La Perouse Bay to Cap Hanamanioa

Dogs Leashed

Features Swimming · Views

This run tours the southern edge of La Perouse Bay along Maui's most recent lava flow of 1790. It is full of history and vistas. Great views of the nearby island of Kahoolawe.

Little shade, no water, good swimming but the water can get rough in the afternoon.

This lava trail is a bit more crushed and smooth than many. Though not very safe for ankles, it's not the worst option if you feel compelled to run on lava...

Though this follows black lava with very little shade, it's often quite windy here (especially after 10am), and being right next to the sea makes it feel fairly comfortable. Bring lots of water and good footwear though!

Just after the start, pass by ruins of ancient Hawaiian structures. Trails have been in use for hundreds of years here - imagine running on these with bare feet! Pass the structures, plus some neat arches and a small blowhole in the lava right next to the sea.

You'll have a short break through a forested section, but the rest of the run traverses crushed lava. It's not nearly as rough as some other lava trails, but watch your footing. If you venture off trail for a better look, be extremely careful - everything is razor sharp and tends to shift underfoot. Keep your eyes out to spot the black/brown goats roaming around the structures and sometimes on the open lava fields.

Enjoy magnificent views the entire way and retrace your steps when you've had enough.

The sea is teeming with life. The lava... not so much!

The lava here flowed in 1790, and was the last burp of Haleakala. Parts of the trail, including the King's Highway AKA Hoapili Trail were rebuilt between 1824-1840 (which makes even the rebuilt trail quite historic!).